Shock death of former headteacher Bob

A well-known former headteacher at a Burnley primary school has died suddenly at home.

Mr Robert “Bob” Pilborough was headteacher at Rosehill Junior School for 24 years before his retirement in 2000.

He was also an active member of Antley Methodist Church in Accrington and an officer in the Boys’ Brigade.

Daughter Judith said: “Dad was a devout Christian and a committed teacher who would do anything to help anyone. He was a true gentleman.

“At school he was very much hands-on and regularly volunteered for the stocks at the humongous school fetes they would hold.

“Dad’s death was very sudden. He had just eaten breakfast at his home in Cog Lane, went upstairs and collapsed.

“It has been a total shock to us all. He wasn’t ill and had no serious health problems. As a family we are grateful for all the love, support and kind words that we have received since his death. We would also like to thank the paramedics who did their best for dad.

“He was still very active, his diary was full of events he was planning for the church.”

Mr Pilborough, who was 77, celebrated his Golden wedding anniversary with wife Joan last August. The pair had met at teacher training college in Hull.

Born in Boston, Lincolnshire, Mr Pilborough also taught at Summerseat Methodist School and night classes in Haslingden and Bacup.

Away from education, he was a keen Everton Football Club fan and season-ticket holder.

He also leaves two other children Zoe and David, and grandchildren Lydia and Aaron.

Judith added: “Dad was an avid reader of newspapers, he would devour them every morning, and also enjoyed crosswords.